Easterns Blog

City Gate, a Washington, D.C. nonprofit, has provided Southeast, D.C. children with a summer outlet for more than 20 years now.

Mary Virginia Merrick Recreation Center fills up every summer after school lets out. The free program Twenty-two years ago, Dr. Lynn Bergfalk started the City Gate program to help at-risk children continue learning throughout the summer.

“We are providing a safe place with caring adults, helping with homework and making sure kids get fed and how to address issues like closing the academic achievement gap, stopping summer learning loss, addressing social and emotional learning,” Dr. Bergfalk said.

With a long-standing track record of engaging at-risk youth in quality afterschool and summer day camp programs, they focus on academics, social-emotional learning, and life skills. In their programs, youth are empowered to realize their potential and become caring, confident, and responsible adults in a safe, structured environment.

Joel Bassam with Easterns Automotive Group wanted to give back to City Gate through 7News’ Helping Hands.

“Learning more and more about City Gate as an organization has been truly eye-opening. The way you have supported our community for over 20 years through your programs is truly amazing,” Bassam said. “You have empowered and engaged at-risk youth and families affected by poverty. We want to help you by donating $2,000 to your cause. Keep doing the amazing work you are doing.”

Dr. Bergfalk says the money could help with unanticipated costs like an extra field trip.